Spring is a glorious time of the year; the landscape transforms into an explosion of vibrant color. This season is filled with natural beauty everywhere you look and activities that delight all ages are rampant. One such event is the 14th annual Wildflower Art and Garden Show held on May 20 by the Niles Main Street Association. This unique event celebrates gardens, spring and the creative works of local artists. Niles residents open their innovative and creative backyards to the public for this popular, once-a-year, self-guided tour.

Visitors to the Niles Wildflower and Garden Show can stroll through cottage gardens complete with vintage picket fences and heritage plants including a wisteria that's over 100 years old. In addition to Victorian and Arts and Crafts displays, more contemporary gardens are also a visual treat, some of them located on what was once the California Nursery property. This area is populated by stately trees, planted by the nursery in the early 1900's and wisely incorporated when houses were built, giving these newer gardens an instant historical patina. In addition to the gardens of the tour, visitors can enjoy the friendly neighborhood ambiance of the area.

Traditionally, gardens have inspired creativity, attracting artists so it's not surprising that Niles has drawn more than its share of artists and craftspeople. Many will be sharing their creative efforts the day of the festival by displaying paintings, jewelry, found object sculptures, pottery, digital photos enhanced by hand drawings, and etch-a-sketch art. Numerous demonstrations will include the glassblowing technique of lampworking, oil and watercolor painting, and jewelry making.

The Niles Commercial District on Niles Boulevard will feature free entertainment, displays by local artists, vendors with garden themes and local nurseries.

For more information call (510) 742-9868 or email info@niles.org. Garden Tour Tickets can be purchased on line at http://www.niles.org for $12, from participating merchants prior to the event or $15 the day of the event. Buy early and you will be entered in a drawing for $100 gift certificate redeemable at participating Niles stores.